Istanbul has a unique charm, thanks to its rich history. The city was once called Byzantium and Constantinople and was an important center for many ancient empires. Many old buildings from these times still stand today, such as the Hagia Sophia, which amazes visitors with its beautiful mosaics.
In addition to historical sites, Istanbul has modern skyscrapers and malls. There are also many great spots in and around the city where you can enjoy stunning views of Istanbul and the Bosporus Strait. Here are some top things to do in Istanbul to help you explore this fascinating city.
The Blue Mosque is a must-see historical landmark in Istanbul. Inside, you’ll see thousands of blue tiles that cover the walls, which is why it’s called the Blue Mosque. The tiles show traditional Ottoman designs, flowers, fruits, and more. You can also see the tomb of Sultan Ahmed I, six tall minarets, and the impressive 43-meter central dome.
Location: Sultan Ahmet, Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, 34122 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm
Sultanahmet Square is the main historical area of Istanbul, surrounded by the city’s most famous attractions. It’s a good idea to stay in the Sultanahmet neighborhood to be close to everything. The square has obelisks, fountains, and remains of an ancient racetrack. From here, you can easily see two of the city’s biggest landmarks to the north and south.
Location: Binbirdirek Mh., Sultan Ahmet Parkı No:2, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Galata Tower is the best spot in Turkey to watch dramatic sunsets. The view of the Istanbul peninsula and its surroundings from the top of this 67-meter tower is unbeatable. Built in the 6th century, it has been rebuilt and restored many times. It’s one of the oldest towers in the world.
Location: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, 34421 Beyoğlu, Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 am to midnight
The Grand Bazaar is Istanbul’s main market, located near the Bosporus Strait where the Black Sea meets the Sea of Marmara. It was a major point for trade ships in the past. You can wander through its crowded alleys to experience the city’s lively market activities. The Grand Bazaar includes many indoor shops and lanes full of vendors.
Location: Beyazıt Mh., 34126 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm, closed on Sundays
For a great view of Istanbul, visit Çamlıca Hill. It’s one of the highest hills in the city and offers stunning views of the skyline. At the top, there’s a café and a park where you can relax and enjoy the sights. From here, you can see both the Asian and European sides of Istanbul, as well as the Bosporus Strait and its bridge.
Location: Kısıklı Mahallesi, Çamlıca Tepesi, 34692 Üsküdar/Istanbul, Turkey
Dolmabahçe Palace is a grand European-style Baroque building on the Bosphorus. Sultan Abdülmecid built it between 1842 and 1853 to rival European palaces. A self-guided audio tour will show you why this palace is one of the most magnificent in the world.
Location: Vişnezade, Dolmabahçe Cd., 34357 Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm (closed on Mondays)
The Walls of Constantinople, also known as the Theodosian Walls or Istanbul City Walls, are a series of stone fortifications that have surrounded Istanbul since its founding by Constantine the Great. Many parts of these medieval walls and towers are still standing today.
Location: Topkapı, 34093 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
The Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks. Built by the East Roman Empire in the 6th century, it was later turned into a mosque by Mehmed the Conqueror in 1453. This architectural wonder is known for its marble structure and stunning interiors.
Location: Sultan Ahmet Mahallesi, Ayasofya Meydanı, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm (until 7 pm in summer)
The Maiden’s Tower sits on a small island in the Bosporus Strait and can be reached by a 15-minute boat ride from Üsküdar. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s surrounded by legends, including one about a princess’s tragic fate. At the top of the lighthouse, you can enjoy coffee or tea at the rooftop café with amazing views of both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.
Location: Salacak Mahallesi, Üsküdar Salacak Mevkii, 34668 Üsküdar/Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:15 am to 6:45 pm (Saturdays and Sundays also from 8:15 pm to 12:30 am)
For a taste of Turkish performing arts, visit the Hodjapasha Cultural Center near the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Housed in a former 15th-century bathhouse, it now features beautifully decorated interiors and hosts vibrant dance performances, including the famous whirling dervishes, which are mystical dances accompanied by Rumi poems.
Location: Hoca Paşa Mahallesi, Ankara Caddesi, Hocapaşa Hamamı Sokak 3/B, 34110 Sirkeci/Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Whirling dervishes usually start at 7 pm
A visit to a hammam, or Turkish bath, is a must-do in Istanbul. Hammams offer various services, including a sauna, steam, full body wash, and massage. Many hammams also incorporate modern spa elements such as aromatherapy. Some well-known hammams include the Beyazit and Sulemaniye baths and the Kilic Ali Pasha Hamam in Beyoğlu.
Location: Kılıç Ali Paşa Hamam, Kemankeş Karamustafa Paşa Mahallesi, Hamam Sk. No:1, 34425 Beyoğlu/Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 am to 11:30 pm
One fun way to enjoy Istanbul at night is by joining a pub crawl. These pub crawls usually start at The Tower Pub, where you can meet new friends and visit different bars, ending up at a club to party until the early hours. Besides drinks and cocktails, you’ll also enjoy games and fun challenges.
Location: The Tower Pub, Bereketzade Mahallesi, Galata Kulesi Sk. 4/1, 34000 Beyoğlu/Istanbul, Turkey
Opening Hours: Friday – Saturday from 9:30 pm to 5 am
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